General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: This is what a REAL Democrat sounds like. [View all]MADem
(135,425 posts)I would only add that "old school" rich people had hoity-toity ways, but they were far less conspicuous in their consumption back in the day than they are today. They were also more attuned to sustainable charitable giving (foundations for pet projects, usually in support of the public welfare, though--not a political idea).
The New Rich have ten houses and a zillion cars, planes, yachts, and consume in an unspeakably ostentatious way. They have So Much Money that it's like a Richie Rich cartoon, their lives.
Old money would wear that raggy ass (expensive, mind you) sweater till the elbows gave out, and then give it to the butler to have the housekeeper put suede patches on the elbows. They're the type who turn down the heat even though they own the electric company. They're frugal-ish...sorta, kinda.
John Kerry is "well off," but he is a pauper compared to his wife. A veritable pauper. Her portfolio outstrips his by leaps and bounds.
I think Obama nominates the people he thinks will get past the gauntlet and do the least damage, and who are amenable to conversation about points of view. If he puts forward an academic or an outsider, the moneyed interests in the Senate will advise against consent, if you will. He's between a rock and a hard place, I suspect, when it comes to some appointments.